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To switch a Honeywell thermostat from cooling to heating, select Heat using the thermostat’s SYSTEM switch, System button, or touchscreen mode control. The exact control depends on the model. Once Heat is selected, set the temperature above the displayed room temperature to call for heat.

Switch modes using the control on your thermostat

Choose Heat on the thermostat itself; do not change installer settings just to switch seasons. Honeywell controls vary by model, so use the instructions below that match what you see.

If your thermostat has a physical SYSTEM switch

  1. Move the SYSTEM switch to HEAT.
  2. Set the desired temperature above the displayed room temperature.

On the PRO TH4110B, the SYSTEM switch selects Heat, Cool, or Off. Heat controls the heating system, Cool controls the cooling system, and Off turns both off. See the PRO TH4110B operating manual.

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If your thermostat has buttons or a touchscreen

  1. Use the System or mode control to select Heat.
  2. Raise the setpoint above the room temperature to request heating.

The button names and menu steps differ among models. For example, the RTH6400 manual describes manual changeover options of Heat, Off, and Cool, with Auto available on models configured for automatic changeover. Follow the instructions for your thermostat rather than assuming another model’s sequence applies. See the RTH6400 manual.

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Identify the model if the controls are unclear

Find the model number on the thermostat label or in its manual. For PRO 1000 models, Honeywell’s instructions say to pull the thermostat from its wallplate and turn it over to find the model number; the method may differ on other product families. Use the matching manual or Honeywell Home support if you cannot identify the control.

PRO 1000 models do not all support the same equipment. Some support heat pumps, and emergency or auxiliary heat is available on select models. Check your model’s labels and manual before selecting those options. The PRO 1000 manual describes its model-specific controls.

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Understand Heat, Cool, Off, and Auto

  • Heat: The thermostat can call for heating when the setpoint is above room temperature.
  • Cool: The thermostat can call for cooling when the setpoint is below room temperature.
  • Off: The thermostat does not call for heating or cooling.
  • Auto: On compatible models with automatic changeover enabled, the thermostat can select heating or cooling based on room temperature and its settings.

Auto is not available on every thermostat, and its setup varies. The RTH6400 manual documents an optional automatic changeover setting; the RTH8500 guide describes a separate installer setting that enables or disables automatic changeover. Do not enter installer setup merely to select Heat. See the RTH6400 manual and RTH8500 guide.

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If the heating does not start

  1. Confirm the mode. Check that the display or switch shows Heat, not Cool or Off.
  2. Check the setpoint. Raise it above the displayed room temperature; a lower setpoint will not prompt heating.
  3. Check the schedule or hold. If the thermostat follows a schedule, it may change the setpoint after you adjust it. Review the model’s instructions for schedule and hold controls.
  4. Give the system time to respond. Follow any delay shown by the thermostat or specified in its manual. Do not repeatedly toggle modes to force a start.
  5. Consult the model manual or get service. If the system still does not respond after these checks, use the exact model’s troubleshooting guidance and contact a qualified HVAC professional as appropriate. Do not open wiring or alter installer settings for a routine mode change.
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Cooling safety when switching seasons

Honeywell manuals warn against operating cooling when the outdoor temperature is below 50°F (10°C) because compressor damage may result. This manufacturer warning appears in the PRO TH4110B operating manual, the PRO 1000 manual, and the T8132 manual. Some models also delay cooling for compressor protection; follow the manual and allow the indicated delay.

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